Jenny Hesketh

rugby

What was your sport and how did you get into it?

I am a rugby player, and have played since I was 7 years old! I loved every sport growing up, for the confidence it gave to me, a way to channel energy in the best way and getting to meet so many different people. Nobody else in my family played much sport but I loved doing my own thing and had their support throughout. I was progressing through the England pathway in both football and rugby when I moved to University, and decided to focus solely on rugby from this point. I have played for Bristol Bears Women in the PWR since then!

Tell us about the highlights of your sporting career?

A highlight for me was playing in my second international cap for Wales in 2024 - we played at Ashton Gate in Bristol, in front of 20,000 people. Taking it all in as I stood on the pitch was such a cool moment, having so many people cheering for us and the sun shining on our faces, it will always stick with me! My other, most recent sporting highlight was definitely making my debut for GB 7’s on the World Series out in Singapore and Australia earlier this year. I enjoyed every part of this tour with a young squad, smiles on faces, playing the crazy sport that is Rugby 7’s amongst the best of the best.

What were some of the challenges you experienced and how did you overcome them?

Injuries come with the sport, and I unfortunately tore my hamstring twice, back to back early last year. The first time was in training with my club at Bristol Bears, from which I rehabbed my way back to play for Gwalia Lightning in the Celtic Challenge. In my second game back, after less than a minute into the game I had re-torn the same hamstring, ending my season. This meant I was to miss my first potential Six Nations tournament as a contracted player. Following this, I missed out on selection for Wales’ tour to Australia and then the 2025 Rugby World Cup. During these setbacks, it was difficult to find purpose away from the rugby pitch, even though I knew this was the most important thing to do. It’s easy to begin thinking one person’s decision defines you, but in this time the most empowering thing was to realise the value you bring to the environments I’m in. Setbacks give you new perspectives, and new roles to play, as I took on the position of Vice-Chair of the inaugural RPA Player’s Board, shaping development and support within the Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) league.

What have been your highlights while working at the Trust?

I am new to the trust, but have loved being part of some marketing bits so far, filming with young people and showing them around our training ground. I’m looking forward to working with more athletes and young people, sharing our experiences and helping each other thrive with confidence and a smile on our faces!

What do you do now alongside working for the Trust?

I am Vice-Chair of the inaugural RPA Women’s Player Board, as the Bristol Bears representative, the Board supports the strategic direction of the PWR, with player welfare and experience at the forefront of what we do. Outside of training, I am a SEND Teaching Assistant. Hoping to pick up some more mentoring and opportunities within the social development space going forward!

What life advice would you give a young person?

I'd say 3 things - Take every opportunity you can, prioritising what makes you smile. Embrace who you are, and allow yourself space to grow! Be kind and enjoy the journey, because you never know where it could take you.

Competitive
Record

2026 Represented Team GB on Sevens World Series, Singapore and Australia

2025 50th Cap for Bristol Bears in Premiership Women’s Rugby

2024 Represented Wales in World XV, South Africa

2024 Represented Wales in Women’s Six Nations